One in 10 children doesn't play outside even once a week, impacting their mental and physical health.

News Topical, Digital Desk : Children around the world are increasingly confined to the four walls of their homes and mobile screens. According to a recent survey by the University of Michigan Health CS Mott Children's Hospital, one in 10 children doesn't go outside to play even once a week. 

This statistic not only raises questions about children's daily routines but also raises concerns about their physical and mental health in the future. Let's find out more. 

Children's friendship is increasing with mobile phones

The survey interviewed 710 parents of children aged 1 to 5 years, with a margin of error of 2 to 7%. The results clearly indicate that children's outdoor playtime is rapidly decreasing. This is due to two main reasons: increased time spent on mobile phones and digital devices, and parents' growing concerns about their children's safety.

Childhood limited by parental fear

The report revealed that 40% of parents fear their child getting hurt. They worry about their child falling, slipping while climbing, or wandering off somewhere. This is why many parents restrict their children from going to parks or playgrounds or keep them under constant supervision.

Activities like climbing trees, riding bicycles, or falling off swings build children's confidence, resilience, and problem-solving skills. These are just as important to their development as academics.

Risky game, learning opportunity

Risky play isn't recklessness, but rather a way to unlock children's potential. When children confront their own fears and try new things, they become mentally stronger. However, the survey also revealed that nearly half of parents hold their child's hand or sit nearby while they are physically attempting something. This impacts children's independence and self-reliance.

It's important to play, not to be perfect.

Play is key to children's learning and development. Not every game needs to be perfect. Play helps children develop their creativity, social skills, and emotional balance. Parents should give children enough space to use their imagination and learn from new experiences.

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